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Beginner’s Guide to Sublimation Printing: What it is, how it works, and what supplies you actually need to get started.

  • August 28, 2025

If you’ve ever scrolled past those vibrant, full-color mugs, tumblers, or t-shirts and thought, “How do people make those?!” — you’re in the right place. Sublimation printing looks like magic, but once you understand the basics, you’ll realize it’s actually pretty simple (and fun!).

Whether you’re a hobby crafter or thinking about turning this into a side hustle, here’s your beginner’s crash course into the world of sublimation.


What is Sublimation Printing?

At its core, sublimation is a process where special ink turns into a gas when heated and permanently bonds with a polyester-coated surface. That means no peeling, no cracking, and no fading — just gorgeous, long-lasting designs.

The magic happens because sublimation ink actually becomes part of the blank (like a mug, keychain, or shirt) instead of just sitting on top of it. That’s why it lasts wash after wash and looks professional every time.


How Does Sublimation Work?

Here’s the step-by-step breakdown:

  1. Design it – Create your artwork on your computer using design software.

  2. Print it – Use sublimation ink and sublimation paper to print your design.

  3. Press it – Place your design on a sublimation blank, secure it with heat tape, and press it using a heat press.

  4. Reveal it – Peel off the paper and admire your permanent, vibrant design.


What Supplies Do You Need to Start Sublimation?

You don’t need a massive craft studio to get started — just a few essentials:

  • Sublimation Printer – A dedicated printer or one converted with sublimation inks.

  • Sublimation Paper & Ink – For sharp, vibrant designs.

  • Heat Press – Choose a flat press, mug press, or tumbler press depending on your projects. (Check out our crafting tools collection to get started.)

  • Heat Tape – A must-have for holding designs in place.

  • Sublimation Blanks – Polyester-coated mugs, tumblers, shirts, ornaments, and more.

  • Extras – Heat gloves, butcher paper, and a blow dryer for oven pressing.


What Can You Make with Sublimation?

The possibilities are endless:


Ready to Start Sublimating?

The best way to learn sublimation is to dive in. Grab your starter tools — a heat press, some heat tape, and a few sublimation blanks — and start experimenting.

And if you want to skip the overwhelm of choosing which blanks to buy, join Sublimation Box Club. Every month, we ship a surprise mix of sublimation blanks straight to your door, so you can try new projects, spark fresh ideas, and keep your creativity flowing.

👉 Ready to take the first step? Shop Sublimation Tools Here

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